FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Former 3rd District Congressman Mark Souder has died after a long battle with cancer at the age of 72. Souder, who was originally from Grabill, began hospice care just a few weeks ago after treatment was no longer available for his pancreatic cancer.
Souder, a Republican, served in the House of Representatives for northeastern Indiana from 1995 until 2010 when he resigned after an extra-marital affair came to light.
He and his wife Diane lived in Allen County and stayed together until his passing.
Souder’s family posted the following message on his Facebook page:
It is with great sadness we share the passing of Mark Souder-Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother. This morning he went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Mark was a strong leader and passionate about his faith, family, and his country. We want to thank you for all the kind words, prayers, and support over the past months.
-The Souder Family
Congressman Jim Banks (IN-03) released the following statement in response to the passing of former Congressman Mark Souder:
“Amanda and I are saddened to hear of the passing of our longtime friend Mark Souder. Mark was a constant source of support and advice for me during my six years serving northeast Indiana in Congress. I will miss his regular Facebook messages and his stories about his 15 years of serving in the same job.
Mark dedicated his life to politics from an early age. He started as a member of college Republicans, then worked on campaigns, then served under former Rep. Dan Coats in Washington DC, before he was elected to serve northeast Indiana in Congress. He was an effective advocate for our conservative and pro-life values during his time in Congress and did much to support our national parks in his leadership roles. His life after leaving Congress in 2010 is an example to many of us of grace and redemption.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Souder family as they mourn his passing. Mark’s service to northeast Indiana will be felt for a long time to come.”
